Ottawa Warns Travellers of High Terrorism Risk in Several European Countries

People are seen at Pearson International Airport in Toronto on March 10, 2023. The Canadian Press/Nathan Denette

Ottawa has updated travel advisories for several European countries, saying the risk of a terrorist attack is elevated and Canadians should “exercise a high degree of caution” when travelling.

Canada posts advisories on its government travel website, noting issues that travellers should be aware of, including higher terrorism risk and demonstrations.

Several countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands, use terrorist alert systems and have recently upgraded their levels. Canada has advised travellers heading to these destinations to be vigilant.

Denmark

The travel advisory for Denmark has been updated to advise Canadians heading to the country to be careful in public areas.

“Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks,” the federal government said.

It noted that the Danish Security and Intelligence Service has placed the country’s terrorist threat level at four on a five-step scale.

Ottawa also noted that the Danish government has previously reintroduced border controls at some crossings and Canadians may need to go through “immigration controls” when entering Denmark.

Spain

Ottawa also upgraded the risk for Canadians travelling to Spain, saying the current terrorism threat level in the country was four on a five-point scale.

“In Spain, attacks causing deaths and injuries have taken place. Further attacks in Spain cannot be ruled out. Further attacks elsewhere in Europe are likely,” the government website said.

It advised travellers to be aware of surroundings, particularly in high traffic areas like tourist attractions, public squares or celebrations, sporting events, and markets.

Demonstrations and strikes could also present a security risk for Canadians in Spain, the government said.

“Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to traffic and public transportation disruptions, including access to roads, airports, and the railway and metro systems. Flight delays or cancellations, as well as disruptions at ports, are also possible,” Ottawa warned.

United Kingdom

In the UK, the national terrorism threat level is at three, or “substantial,” on a five-step scale, Ottawa said.

While there is no elevated risk noted for Ireland, Northern Ireland has a threat level of four or “severe” out of five, the government website said.

“In the United Kingdom, previous attacks have resulted in casualties. They have included random violent incidents in public areas, such as knife and vehicle attacks as well as explosions,” the Canadian travel advisory reads.

It noted that most of the attacks have occurred in the London area but have also happened elsewhere in the country.

Places that are higher risk include tourist attractions, government buildings, and places of worship, according to the Canadian government.

The website also says that demonstrations happen “regularly” and present a safety risk.

“Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Past violent clashes between protestors and security forces have resulted in assaults, riots, looting and vandalism. Protests can deteriorate quickly.”

Germany

Travellers to Germany have also been advised to be cautious, as a terrorist attack could occur.

“Over the past few years, several attacks have occurred in Germany. These have resulted in many injuries and deaths. Further attacks are likely,” Ottawa said.

The advisory says places that are higher risk include government buildings, schools, places of worship, airports or transportation hubs, and public places, including tourist attractions.

Travellers are advised to stay aware of their surroundings and be vigilant.

Netherlands

The threat level in the Netherlands is at four out of five, according to the Canadian government travel advisory. It said that “attacks in the Netherlands cannot be ruled out.”

The website also notes that Canadians over the age of 14 years must carry valid identification “at all times” as local authorities may issue fines to those who do not have appropriate identification.

France

The Canadian government said that terrorist attacks in France were “likely.”

It noted that the French government’s public alert system for terrorism was at its highest level, level three.

“Over the past few years in France, several opportunistic and premeditated attacks have occurred. These have resulted in many deaths and injuries,” Ottawa said in the advisory.

It also warned Canadians that there could be an increased police or military presence in public places.

The advisory also notes that a number of bomb threats have been sent to public places across France over the past couple of years, and present a risk.

High traffic areas are likely targets, including shopping centres, tourist attractions, government facilities, and religious institutions.

“If you are in an area targeted by a bomb threat, follow the instructions of local authorities including evacuation orders,” Ottawa advised.

Demonstrations in France also pose a risk to travellers, according to the Canadian advisory.

“Radical activists and vandals have a history of using aggressive and violent tactics during demonstrations in order to cause damage and provoke a strong response from the police. They sometimes throw stones, smoke grenades, bottles and other debris at rallies. The police normally respond with tear gas to disperse the crowds,” it warns.

Canadians travelling to France have been advised to always carry valid identification.

Sweden

The Swedish government has its terrorist threat level listed at three on a five-step scale, noting an “elevated threat,” the Canadian travel advisory said.

Italy

The risk of a terrorist attack in Italy is higher between Dec. 24, 2024, and Jan. 6, 2026, as it is considered the Jubilee, a holy year.

“A large number of visitors are expected. Pilgrimages and large-scale events will take place across the city during the Holy Year,” the Canadian travel advisory said.

It also noted that ”attacks in Italy cannot be ruled out.”

Canadians travelling to the country are advised to expect increased military and police presence in high traffic and public places, including major landmarks.